Warner Marine K series Cone skimmer Review !!!!! - Page 3

mojo~ · 12/19/2008, 12:20 AM

This skimmer sells for $799 The cost jumped up a bit but it is now made in the Good ol USA. Other than the Sicce pump. Most of the competition for this skimmer is made overseas. So if where it is made is important then I take my hat off to someone bringing some business back home. I just sat back down but Melev I will get you a picture. Thanks for chiming in.

redmarble · 12/19/2008, 02:07 AM

I thought it also came from these guys in Asia (Korea?):

http://www.jns.idv.tw/index.php?lang=eng

Retzius · 12/19/2008, 02:52 AM

Very nice mojo, thank you for taking the time to post your results they are very helpful.

Based on your SCFH numbers it appears WM volute design on the Sicce pump is far better than the SWC one.

I own the SWC sicce and now I am wondering if I WM will sell the volute kit.

mojo~ · 12/19/2008, 05:46 AM

The proto was built overseas but all the production models are built in the USA. I think that is a great selling point in todays economy.

fernandokng · 12/19/2008, 08:22 AM

Should the air meter be jumping around so much?

johnnyblaze313 · 12/19/2008, 09:21 AM

Looks good mojo,

Whats your initial impression of a cone so far? Definetly looks different than what happens inside a cylinder skimmer, aye.

mojo~ · 12/19/2008, 09:26 AM

actually thats pretty good. Part of the movement too is me holding camera in one hand and meter in the other. I was doing my best to hold the meter still I just couldnt hang it or the port in back was getting blocked by the tank. I can only sit so still. lol. Most people dont take video of air reading you just see a still shot. But it is really stable and constant. The WM skimmer uses a larger airline over the other brands selling the sicce pump with their skimmer. This is 1/2 inch silicone tubing. Very nice. Not flimsy and it wont kink. Its what I would expect from a premium skimmer.

DarG · 12/19/2008, 09:42 AM

Its pretty normal for the air meter indicator to jump some. On a short scale meter with the same range it would be bouncing much more.

mojo~ · 12/19/2008, 09:43 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by johnnyblaze313
Looks good mojo,

Whats your initial impression of a cone so far? Definetly looks different than what happens inside a cylinder skimmer, aye.

Well, hmmm As my skimmer review forum shows I kind of have to break down the areas a little. I cant say how well its going to perform over a given amount of time yet. But I am starting to get skimmate with chunks of poo in them. Just like I had hoped for. The pump starts up nicely everytime as a pinwheel should. The skimmer runs quietly. The customer service is awesome. And not to mention the skimmer is built really well. I am proud to say that the production models are being made in the US as this does mean alot to me. Some might not care. But I do try to by US made products when I can. If given a choice I ll buy us made over china.
Overall, the skimmer is running really well. It is meeting my expectations thus far. It is really early in the game for this skimmer yet but I think it is going to be the best skimmer I have owned. I did expect that as I paid more for this skimmer. I just want to mention again for all those who are die hard ATB fans. I think ATB make a good product. No doubt. But this Skimmer , The Warner Marine K2, would be in direct competition with a ATB Medium cone. So to pay $799 for this US made skimmer might seem high it is still a bargain compared to 1199 for the atb
Here are the ATB and Warner Marine Specs Side by side
ATB medium / WM K2
Size: 16Lx10.25Wx21.5H / 15Lx10.5Wx23H
Base diameter is 10.25 / 10.5
Pump: Eheim 1260 / Sicce psk 2500 Custom volute and pinwheel
Max Air 950L/hr / 1000L/hr
$1199 / $799
So if you look at it that way I hope you can see why I say what it would compare too. I am just doing my best to give you factual information that I have. Buy which ever skimmer you like I dont get anything from anyone. I just have an opportunity this time to share something new with you all. And if I forget to mention... Everyone have a safe and happy holiday season.

mojo~ · 12/19/2008, 11:18 AM

Everything is looking really good this morning. I do like how easy it is to adjust with the large gate valve. Two thumbs up for adding that to the skimmer

jamesdawson · 12/19/2008, 12:04 PM

Mojo,

Minor correction.

The specs you show on the ATB med are out-of-date. Most of the mediums come with Askoll 1500 (Airstar) pumps now and thus have higher air numbers.

Keep up the great work.

James

victor90 · 12/19/2008, 12:40 PM

Thanks James for the correct info

frenchie · 12/19/2008, 01:47 PM

guess atb should update there site so someone knows what there buying than, good product should be advertised correctly, i would be mad if i bought one and it didn't fit cause they didn't change there specs.

mojo~ · 12/19/2008, 02:18 PM

Thanks jamesdawson , I just got it off there website. So good to know.
I am actually pulling more than what it is rated at but I am sure they we be pulling between 950 and 1100 LPH

ostrow · 12/19/2008, 02:29 PM

I'm concerned about that fluctuating air intake. I've owned 5 Sicces and have 3 running now. One thing I've learned ... if the air is bouncing like that, then something is unbalanced and skimming inconsistent at best. I know someone posted it is normal but it should not be. I trim the mesh on my mesh-mods until the air meter is rock steady. The pinwheels I have do not budge. If they did, I'd open up the pump and inspect for problems (normally the problem would be that the centerpiece on the impeller is not pushed down all the way, or something is caught in the pinwheels, if neither of these then something more serious may be wrong.

just dave · 12/19/2008, 02:33 PM

Here is what I'd like to know. Do the cone skimmers ( or any really high end skimmer) perform at a level that the increase in price corresponds with the increase in performance?

ostrow · 12/19/2008, 02:40 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by just dave
Here is what I'd like to know. Do the cone skimmers ( or any really high end skimmer) perform at a level that the increase in price corresponds with the increase in performance?

Cones are new, so early to tell.

But as for the general part of your question, I can say this. I used to run an ASM G5. Then I modded it.

Then I replaced it with an ATI BM250 which so completely outperformed the ASM that it isn't even funny. I ran that until my custom skimmer was built, kept it for a while, then switched entirely to my custom. I love it.

But I'm getting tempted by the ATB and Warner cones out/coming out. Also pondering a custom version to fit my needs more precisely.

jman77 · 12/19/2008, 03:05 PM

Looking good Mojo ...thanks for the review...

I have a few questions though. ...
Does the pump rattle at all when it fires up.

Whats the pinwheel look like ?

What kind of GPH do you think the psk is pulling into through the cone ?

mojo~ · 12/19/2008, 03:28 PM

The skimmer starts instantly. no rattle or anything it is perfeclty quiet. I cant complain. As far as the meter bouncing It is actually more steady than any of the last 4 sicce pumps I have owned. I find that it is really constant. And if you run mesh it bounces even more.

And to post correct information i did a little research on the ATB medium. The price is $1199 for the meduim with the ehiem, or used to be. With the airstar it does pull more air but the price jumps to $1399
Medium Cone Skimmer
$1399.00 w/ Airstar 1300L/hr (socal)
So the ATB with airstar does pull a little more air than my Warner Marine K2. But @ $600 more. Sorry but $600 is alot of extra cash to spend else where. Again Nothing against any skimmer out there. I was corrected on some info but wanted to make sure I got it right this time.
I will get some nog shots here real soon.

mojo~ · 12/19/2008, 03:30 PM

I believe anyone who buys this skimmer will be pleased. As far as the question is it worth the extra $$ to buy a cone. I am not sure yet but this cone with the Bubble ring is a nice skimmer. No doubt about that. It will be hard pressed to find someone that will use one and be unhappy.

frenchie · 12/19/2008, 03:55 PM

sounds like a good review, can't wait to see how much that pulls out in a week, you have it on heavily stocked tank.

mojo~ · 12/19/2008, 04:00 PM

no not really this tank will be switching from a mix reef 75 to a sps barebottome 90 gallon. medium to light load.

tufacody · 12/19/2008, 05:10 PM

Any external cone model from WM?

mojo~ · 12/19/2008, 06:12 PM

you will have to ask Jon warner in the sponsor forum. I am not sure about that.

mojo~ · 12/19/2008, 09:36 PM

Here is a pic of what the ATB is pulling with the Eheim 1260. Not that it matters but it appear to meto be about 12 or 13 lpm, I just know that there are a lot of people that might wonder how these compare, It is the best I can do with the what Iinformation I have. I ll take some more pics when when I get home. But I hope you all are finding some good reading here. And enjoy a premium built p

roduct made right here in the US.

12/19/2008, 12:20 AM	#51
mojo~ Skimmer Guy Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: IN Posts: 5,647	This skimmer sells for $799 The cost jumped up a bit but it is now made in the Good ol USA. Other than the Sicce pump. Most of the competition for this skimmer is made overseas. So if where it is made is important then I take my hat off to someone bringing some business back home. I just sat back down but Melev I will get you a picture. Thanks for chiming in. __________________ Mojo~

12/19/2008, 02:07 AM	#52
redmarble Registered Member Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: SoCal - Whittier Posts: 408	I thought it also came from these guys in Asia (Korea?): http://www.jns.idv.tw/index.php?lang=eng __________________ Joey Z. Current Tank Info: 55G Rimless Reef + 80G total Sump

12/19/2008, 05:46 AM	#54
mojo~ Skimmer Guy Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: IN Posts: 5,647	The proto was built overseas but all the production models are built in the USA. I think that is a great selling point in todays economy. __________________ Mojo~

12/19/2008, 09:26 AM	#57
mojo~ Skimmer Guy Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: IN Posts: 5,647	actually thats pretty good. Part of the movement too is me holding camera in one hand and meter in the other. I was doing my best to hold the meter still I just couldnt hang it or the port in back was getting blocked by the tank. I can only sit so still. lol. Most people dont take video of air reading you just see a still shot. But it is really stable and constant. The WM skimmer uses a larger airline over the other brands selling the sicce pump with their skimmer. This is 1/2 inch silicone tubing. Very nice. Not flimsy and it wont kink. Its what I would expect from a premium skimmer. __________________ Mojo~

12/19/2008, 11:18 AM	#60
mojo~ Skimmer Guy Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: IN Posts: 5,647	Everything is looking really good this morning. I do like how easy it is to adjust with the large gate valve. Two thumbs up for adding that to the skimmer __________________ Mojo~

12/19/2008, 02:52 AM	#53
Retzius Registered Member Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: San Diego Posts: 326	Very nice mojo, thank you for taking the time to post your results they are very helpful. Based on your SCFH numbers it appears WM volute design on the Sicce pump is far better than the SWC one. I own the SWC sicce and now I am wondering if I WM will sell the volute kit.

12/19/2008, 08:22 AM	#55
fernandokng Registered Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: New York City Posts: 425	Should the air meter be jumping around so much?

12/19/2008, 09:21 AM	#56
johnnyblaze313 Registered Member Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: Detroit, MI Posts: 420	Looks good mojo, Whats your initial impression of a cone so far? Definetly looks different than what happens inside a cylinder skimmer, aye.

12/19/2008, 09:42 AM	#58
DarG Registered Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Posts: 5,515	Its pretty normal for the air meter indicator to jump some. On a short scale meter with the same range it would be bouncing much more.

12/19/2008, 12:04 PM	#61
jamesdawson Registered Member Join Date: Nov 2003 Location: I AM THE SEA Posts: 1,303	Mojo, Minor correction. The specs you show on the ATB med are out-of-date. Most of the mediums come with Askoll 1500 (Airstar) pumps now and thus have higher air numbers. Keep up the great work. James __________________ Old Reefers Never Die, they just...join the crew! Current Tank Info: I'm expanding my reach

12/19/2008, 12:40 PM	#62
victor90 Registered Member Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: san jose ca Posts: 1,303	Thanks James for the correct info

12/19/2008, 01:47 PM	#63
frenchie Registered Member Join Date: Jun 2006 Posts: 5,730	guess atb should update there site so someone knows what there buying than, good product should be advertised correctly, i would be mad if i bought one and it didn't fit cause they didn't change there specs. __________________ Darrick slash member 24 gallon nano cube, LED lights, zoanthids, shrooms Current Tank Info: 93 gallon cube, ecotech LED, swc 160 cone skimmer, lots of softies

12/19/2008, 02:18 PM	#64
mojo~ Skimmer Guy Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: IN Posts: 5,647	Thanks jamesdawson , I just got it off there website. So good to know. I am actually pulling more than what it is rated at but I am sure they we be pulling between 950 and 1100 LPH __________________ Mojo~

12/19/2008, 02:29 PM	#65
ostrow It's Dr. Goodluck Himself Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Oak Park, IL Posts: 11,654	I'm concerned about that fluctuating air intake. I've owned 5 Sicces and have 3 running now. One thing I've learned ... if the air is bouncing like that, then something is unbalanced and skimming inconsistent at best. I know someone posted it is normal but it should not be. I trim the mesh on my mesh-mods until the air meter is rock steady. The pinwheels I have do not budge. If they did, I'd open up the pump and inspect for problems (normally the problem would be that the centerpiece on the impeller is not pushed down all the way, or something is caught in the pinwheels, if neither of these then something more serious may be wrong. __________________ It's the return of Dr. Goodluck Himself. fml! Current Tank Info: 156G "brick", 150 sump and 75 fuge replaces Fire, Destruction, Sad :(

12/19/2008, 02:33 PM	#66
just dave 11th in '11 Join Date: May 2004 Location: Cordova, TN Posts: 4,394	Here is what I'd like to know. Do the cone skimmers ( or any really high end skimmer) perform at a level that the increase in price corresponds with the increase in performance?

12/19/2008, 03:05 PM	#68
jman77 Registered Member Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: West Palm Beach, Florida Posts: 2,391	Looking good Mojo ...thanks for the review... I have a few questions though. ... Does the pump rattle at all when it fires up. Whats the pinwheel look like ? What kind of GPH do you think the psk is pulling into through the cone ?

12/19/2008, 03:28 PM	#69
mojo~ Skimmer Guy Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: IN Posts: 5,647	The skimmer starts instantly. no rattle or anything it is perfeclty quiet. I cant complain. As far as the meter bouncing It is actually more steady than any of the last 4 sicce pumps I have owned. I find that it is really constant. And if you run mesh it bounces even more. And to post correct information i did a little research on the ATB medium. The price is $1199 for the meduim with the ehiem, or used to be. With the airstar it does pull more air but the price jumps to $1399 Medium Cone Skimmer $1399.00 w/ Airstar 1300L/hr (socal) So the ATB with airstar does pull a little more air than my Warner Marine K2. But @ $600 more. Sorry but $600 is alot of extra cash to spend else where. Again Nothing against any skimmer out there. I was corrected on some info but wanted to make sure I got it right this time. I will get some nog shots here real soon. __________________ Mojo~

12/19/2008, 03:30 PM	#70
mojo~ Skimmer Guy Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: IN Posts: 5,647	I believe anyone who buys this skimmer will be pleased. As far as the question is it worth the extra $$ to buy a cone. I am not sure yet but this cone with the Bubble ring is a nice skimmer. No doubt about that. It will be hard pressed to find someone that will use one and be unhappy.

12/19/2008, 03:55 PM	#71
frenchie Registered Member Join Date: Jun 2006 Posts: 5,730	sounds like a good review, can't wait to see how much that pulls out in a week, you have it on heavily stocked tank. __________________ Darrick slash member 24 gallon nano cube, LED lights, zoanthids, shrooms Current Tank Info: 93 gallon cube, ecotech LED, swc 160 cone skimmer, lots of softies

12/19/2008, 04:00 PM	#72
mojo~ Skimmer Guy Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: IN Posts: 5,647	no not really this tank will be switching from a mix reef 75 to a sps barebottome 90 gallon. medium to light load. __________________ Mojo~

12/19/2008, 05:10 PM	#73
tufacody Registered Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Posts: 1,890	Any external cone model from WM?

12/19/2008, 06:12 PM	#74
mojo~ Skimmer Guy Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: IN Posts: 5,647	you will have to ask Jon warner in the sponsor forum. I am not sure about that. __________________ Mojo~

12/19/2008, 09:36 PM	#75
mojo~ Skimmer Guy Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: IN Posts: 5,647	Here is a pic of what the ATB is pulling with the Eheim 1260. Not that it matters but it appear to meto be about 12 or 13 lpm, I just know that there are a lot of people that might wonder how these compare, It is the best I can do with the what Iinformation I have. I ll take some more pics when when I get home. But I hope you all are finding some good reading here. And enjoy a premium built product made right here in the US. __________________ Mojo~